Cue Up The Episode

1. Make sure to listen to Sofia's episode of The Storied Podcast, Christmas in Ecuador while you make her festive Pristiños!

Make the Dough

1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, baking powder, and salt.
2. In a separate bowl, beat the eggs and sugar together until well mixed.
3. Gradually add the melted butter, milk, vanilla extract, and orange zest to the egg mixture.
4. Slowly incorporate the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients, mixing until you have a smooth dough.

Form and Fry the Pristinos

1. Roll out the dough on a floured surface.
2. Use a knife to cut the dough into strips about 4 or 5 inches long by 1 inch wide. Cut small, ½ inch notches on one side of the strips. Bring the two ends of the strip together to form a circle, notched sides facing out. Pinch ends together and drop in the hot oil 350-375°F (175-190°C). Fry until a deep golden brown.
3. Remove pristiños from the oil and drain on paper towels.
4. Prepare the Syrup:
5. In a separate saucepan, combine the water, sugar, cinnamon stick, cloves, and orange peel and juice. Bring this mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat and simmer for about 10-15 minutes, until it thickens slightly into a syrup.